Testimony

[witchladdy]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? California

My son witnessed a murder and of course has been called as a witness. My main concern is that it is gang related and the teenager is being tried as an adult so the court room is open to the public. I would like to know can my son just give written testimony instead of being on the stand I think it would be much safer for him. Please advise

 

[seniorjudge]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? California

My son witnessed a murder and of course has been called as a witness. My main concern is that it is gang related and the teenager is being tried as an adult so the court room is open to the public. I would like to know can my son just give written testimony instead of being on the stand I think it would be much safer for him. Please advise

What did the prosecutor say when you asked your question?

 

[CdwJava]

The prosecutor can ask the court to arrange for a closed courtroom if safety concerns are reasonable and clearly articulated. It may not be possible, but if your son is a minor and this is a known gang with a history of violence it may be a viable option.

Written testimony is almost certainly right out since a written statement cannot be cross-examined. I seriously doubt the defense would agree to any such thing.

You can also seek assistance through Victim-Witness services in your county. They might have some avenues to help you out in this regard.

Good luck, and I applaud you and your son for doing the right thing by coming forward even if it is a scary thing. Evil will triumph when good people are too afraid to stand up and come forward.

 

[The Occultist]

Written testimony is almost certainly right out since a written statement cannot be cross-examined. I seriously doubt the defense would agree to any such thing.

You'd thinking with all our technology we'd have some sort of court instant messaging service set up.

 

[Antigone*]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? California

My son witnessed a murder and of course has been called as a witness. My main concern is that it is gang related and the teenager is being tried as an adult so the court room is open to the public. I would like to know can my son just give written testimony instead of being on the stand I think it would be much safer for him. Please advise

A letter or written statement cannot be cross examined.